Damien wanted to argue, to defend his connection with Lyristae. But everything they were saying was objectively accurate.
He was isolating. He was being pursued. He was vulnerable in ways the corruption made him unable to fully recognize.
"What do you want me to do?" he asked.
"Be honest. With us, and with yourself, with what's actually happening." Seria returned to studying her maps, the conversation apparently concluded from her perspective. "And maybe spend less time alone with the Queen who just happens to be exactly what the corrupted part of you thinks you need."
---
That evening, Damien stood in Lyristae's private study, reviewing defensive plans. They'd been working together for hours, their shadow magic occasionally brushing against each other as they manipulated tactical diagrams.
"Your companions don't approve of me," Lyristae observed. It wasn't a question.
"They're concerned. About the time we're spending together, about how it's affecting my anchor bonds."
